Maruti SX4 expert review BSMotoring

Step into the SX4 and you are greeted by a very functional interior that has been deliberately meddled with to grab your attention. Two plasto-chrome strips line the centre console and there is a good sprinkling of the stuff elsewhere too, adding to the "expensive and sporty" look. Dark dials and orange displays according to me belonged to Audis of the nineties but do not look all that out of place in a Suzuki sedan. Look at the kit! The top-end City doesn’t have any of the gizmo bits thrown into the SX4 ZXi, and the latter costs way less. But the new age construction of the Honda with tis petrol tank situated under the front seat means rear passengers can fold their legs under the seat – something you cannot do with the SX4. Settle in the comfortable seat, adjust the mirrors, fire the motor and you are in for an audible surprise. Unlike the previous Suzuki engines, this one makes its presence felt. You can pick up the valve gear and other mechanical noises. The new 16-valve M-series motor displaces 1586cc and it generates 102 bhp at 5500 rpm and 14.5 kgm torque at 4200 rpm. Hardly any revs? Well, this is a typical Euro-spec motor from Suzuki and on that does not need to be revved to the moon for good results. The ride quality is sublime for a Suzuki (I drive one on a daily basis, I should know) and the car has enough ground clearance for you to quit worrying about speed breakers. The heart-breaking thumps normally associated with fragile cars and potholes are missing in action. The SX4 looks, feels and drives like a car that is better put together than any other Suzuki that is made in India. Exceptional fit and finish (including the interior bit) takes it to the same league as the Honda.